Posted Oct. 31, 2011, 4:05 am

Mirror Staff

A formal investigation into the May 4, 2011, possible hate crime at Santa Monica High School has concluded there was no probable cause to believe that any staff member or employee of the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District participated in any activity, or acted in such a manner, that supports an allegation of criminal misconduct.

The investigation examined allegations of potential criminal misconduct involving high ranking employees of the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District.

More specifically, it had been alleged that Santa Monica High School staff members intimidated victims and/or witnesses and destroyed evidence.

The participation of ICIB in this matter would safeguard the integrity and credibility of the investigation.

The original incident occurred on May 4, 2011, involved a possible hate crime by two students on the Santa Monica High School wrestling team.

The family of the victim, who is also a member of the wrestling team, filed a report with the Santa Monica Police Department on June 21, 2011, and a criminal investigation was initiated.

On Friday, Oct. 28, 2011, the Santa Monica Police Department was notified by the Sheriff's Department that the investigation has been completed.

The thorough inquiry included interviews, review of the crime report, written declarations, and photographic images.

The criminal investigation portion of the investigation involving the students was thoroughly investigated by the Criminal Investigations Division of the Santa Monica Police Department.

The case was presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office for filing consideration on September 20, 2011, and is presently under review.

As per the direction of the SMMUSD Board of Education, a third-party investigator will immediately begin a subsequent investigation of the incident to examine whether existing policies, practices, and procedures were followed immediately following the incident and to make recommendations about changes that should be made.

Results of this investigation will be made public upon the investigation’s completion.

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Oct. 31, 2011, 3:22:26 pm

Skiffle said...

Cover up. Anyone surprised?

Oct. 31, 2011, 11:05:15 pm

Dog is my Copilot said...

Regardless if this was a hate crime or not, I think that most people would agree that hazing and the approving attitude and actions by the faculty was inappropriate and unacceptable.

Nov. 1, 2011, 6:59:04 am

Concerned citizen said...

Students and parents of the SMMUSD for several months have shared their stories in public forums about this incident. I believe them and not the findings of this investigation.
This is a travesty of justice!

Nov. 1, 2011, 9:49:11 am

Debra Shepherd said...

The fact that people have left comments without leaving their names speaks volumes about this community and the school district. People should feel comfortable enough to give their opinion and leave their name.
This is America. We all have a right to free speech, even if we don't agree with the other person's opinion. Peace.